2019 APS Board of Education Resolution for School Safety

Board of Education

Resolution

Relating to School Safety in the United States

WHEREAS, Albuquerque Public Schools stands with districts across the country that are concerned with the safety and security of children adversely affected by violence on school campuses; and

WHEREAS, there is a need for the nation’s major school systems to express their positions on school safety matters that affect its students and the children residing in it cities; and

WHEREAS, students have publicly expressed concern for their safety and well-being and have indicated that policymakers should act immediately to protect them in school; and

WHEREAS, the leaders of the school systems respect the concerns of their students, and support the growing civic and social participation of high school students; and

WHEREAS, the safety of our children in school needs proactive attention; and

WHEREAS, comprehensive school safety plans address facilities, personnel, coordination of services with public agencies, as well as preventative mental health educational programs; and

WHEREAS, students should be safe in school; and

WHEREAS, school boards should explore all options to secure our students’ safety in schools; and

WHEREAS, schools should plan for the possibility of such acts of violence, coordinate with law enforcement, and secure their buildings from intruders; and

WHEREAS, many schools lack the mental health counselors, psychologists and social workers they need to identify and work with students showing warning signs for depression, suicide and violence; and

WHEREAS, the multiple school shootings that the nation has witnessed over the years have complex causes requiring multiple solutions;

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Albuquerque Public Schools join with other districts to find a solution to all acts of violence while respecting the rights of US citizens guaranteed by the Second Amendment; and

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Albuquerque Public Schools calls on federal, state and local governments to require and strengthen universal background checks related to the purchase, but not the temporary transfer or loan of firearms; and

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the New Mexico State Legislature prioritize school safety within its budget and budget planning, including increased funding for counselors, mental health staff, psychologists and social workers in our schools; and

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that copies of this resolution be transmitted to the Governor of New Mexico, the Secretary of Public Education, the Legislative Education Study Committee, the Legislative Finance Committee and the New Mexico School Boards Association.